I don't see why you couldn't introduce a section of artificial turf through the existing deck (a little like we have done in the attached example). Artificial turf is a fantastic material and when used like this it forms a feature around which we set the patio furniture. Large bold planters could be introduced down one side see www.designscapeuk.com for an interesting range of styles and colours. Combined with LED spotlights retro fitted into the surface in an interesting pattern this would start to develop the space. There is also the possibility to create planting holes within the deck into which trees could be set - probably on a simple grid and uplit. Above all keep it simple and the space will become interesting and designed.

Your very welcome. I am sure you can turn your garden around with that sort of budget. Simple things like painting the existing fence will have a great effect with little outlay. Also, I think someone else has suggested combining gravel with artificial turf- this is a great idea. Perhaps you could run a path of artificial turf along the side passage then a narrow section in the garden with gravelled and planted areas. Reclaimed scaffold boards make nice decking if you can get hold of any. Salvage yards often have them ~£15 for a 3m length, I think it normally works out at about £15 per sqm for the planks. You could leave them bare for a quirky rustic look or stain them grey for a modern feel. Good luck with the garden!

We had a similar dilemma with our current project. We had a lovely patio but awkward steps down from the house garden level. With our kitchen reconfiguration we put in bifolds so created a brick built upper terrace to Walk out on to. The builder tried to get us to deck but We had had similar treacherous wet slimey experiences to you in our old house so not keen. Anyway, it's not finished yet but I can see it is going to look fab. We couldn't match the York stone so have a wood effect tile to contrast. My builder reckoned it was £8k of work and materials at the start of the project but we have an all inclusive so I don't know how accurate that would have been if I'd asked for the savings and gone for decking!!

As A.S. says decide on your preference and get a joiner to make them for you. Below are the handrails around the decking on my caravan. We have glass all around to avoid interrupting the view over the river and hardwood handrails over the top of the glass. These were bespoke made by hubby who is a joiner.